Thursday, January 5, 2012

Survival Day

January 5, 2011

No, I didn't get the year wrong. January 5, 2011, one year ago today, was the day Al had a stroke. I cannot believe it has been a year already. Probably because I've been either in a fog, or carried by the grace of God, or both for the past 365 days. Either way, the one-year mark is unbelievable.

As we approached this date in 2012, I feared it. I've had PTSD symptoms such as "recurrent re-experiencing of the trauma - for example, troublesome memories or flashbacks that are usually caused by reminders of the traumatic events." I thought the day would be a dark, grim reminder of everything the stroke took away.

However, I woke up this morning inexplicably peaceful and almost. . . .happy. A thought popped into my head, and I rolled over to Al and said, "Happy Survival Day." I have no doubt that little thought was the Lord's message to me - Don't look at today as a cruel memento, but as a landmark of Al's surviving! The Lord allowed me to see a new picture - a year of survival, a year of victory, a year of enduring adversity.

Romans 8:28 assures us: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Only the Lord can take such a harrowing experience, break through it, and turn it into something good.

Thank You, Lord, and Happy Survival Day to my dear hubby!

2 comments:

  1. Happy day!! Congratulations to your whole family, you all made it! You have all worked so hard and come so far. This is really hard, but you are doing it. Your husband has worked hard and seen amazing gains, but that is possible because of your love, support, and sacrifice. I hope this next year brings infinitely more recovery, happiness, and love.
    We just celebrated my one year day recently too 12/10/11. It was a huge, emotional celebration of life! :)

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  2. Happy Survival Day indeed! Trauma is difficult, and the journey can be long and hard. Today is a great day to recognize the blessings and strength that you have been given amidst a very difficult situation. I hope this next year brings even more strength, peace, and recovery for each of you!

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